About Antarctica
Antarctica is the earth's final frontier, a continent of staggering scale where tabular icebergs the size of cities drift past colonies of thousands of penguins and humpback whales breach in crystalline waters. Reached almost exclusively by expedition ship from Ushuaia, the journey through the Drake Passage is itself a rite of passage that rewards travelers with landscapes of pristine, almost alien beauty. Standing on the frozen shore surrounded by nothing but ice, wind, and the calls of seabirds is a humbling reminder of the planet's raw, untamed power.
Things to Do
Penguin Colony Landings
Step ashore via Zodiac to walk among vast gentoo and chinstrap penguin rookeries where thousands of birds waddle, nest, and call to their chicks.
Zodiac Iceberg Cruising
Weave between sculpted blue icebergs and calving glacier faces in an inflatable boat, close enough to hear the ice crack and shift.
Humpback Whale Watching
Spot humpback and minke whales feeding in the nutrient-rich polar waters, often surfacing mere meters from the expedition vessel.
Polar Plunge
Strip down and leap into the sub-zero Southern Ocean for a breathtaking few seconds that earn you ultimate bragging rights.
Lemaire Channel Transit
Sail through the narrow, mountain-flanked Lemaire Channel, nicknamed Kodak Gap for its impossibly photogenic ice-choked passage.
Deception Island Caldera
Cruise into the flooded caldera of an active volcano and walk along black volcanic beaches with steam rising from the ground.
Local Tips
Book expedition cruises at least a year in advance as ships are small and berths sell out quickly for peak season departures.
Pack seasickness medication for the Drake Passage crossing, which can produce swells of six meters or more over two days.
Bring waterproof pants, insulated boots, and multiple warm layering pieces as conditions change rapidly during Zodiac landings.
Follow IAATO guidelines strictly: maintain five-meter distance from wildlife, stay on marked paths, and carry nothing ashore or back.
Budget for the full expedition cost upfront as most Antarctic voyages range from seven to twenty thousand dollars per person including meals and excursions.
Plan Your Trip
Browse 1 curated trip to Antarctica. Each includes a 7-day itinerary you can customize.
